Is it really all doom and gloom in the Scottish StartUp scene?
It's undeniable that the last few years have seen a period of 'economic uncertainty'. And with a news report this week stating that 'analysis of start up data by Bank of Scotland shows the number of new businesses in Scotland fell three per cent in the year', you could be forgiven for thinking twice about starting a new venture.
But with more support and assistance than ever for Scottish entrepreneurs, is it really 'doom and gloom' in the start up scene? I don't think so. Read my latest blog highlighting a few of the 'ones to watch' in 2017 and then check out the exciting roles available in some of Scotland's most exciting - and expanding -new companies.
Numbers may be down... but the start up scene is definitely not out.
I agree Jane. There is much to be positive about. Some great ideas and companies led by great teams. The foundations are strong and the challenge is to build the next generation of long term success stories in technology, energy and life sciences. For me this is about building great businesses and helping to grow and develop the next generation of great leaders.
Non Executive Director and VC Professional
8yThere is a clear difference between the FanDuel and Skyscanners of this world and a medical device, diagnostic or pharma and that is time to first revenues and equity required to achieve those. There has been considerable progress over the past few years in attracting venture capital into Scotland e.g. Epidarex. However, we need 5-10x that to even begin to make inroads into the gulf that exists between Scotland and the 'Golden Triangle'.
Freeform: Chief Executive @ Snedden Campbell Ltd | 20+ yrs finding senior skilled people in medical tech
8yWell, put it this way: we're still doing an order of magnitude more work pro rata with early stage medical device businesses outside Scotland than we are in our backyard. And, the funds raised by equivalent startups and scale ups tend to have extra 0's on the end the further south and east of Berwick one travels. I don't think we should despair but the lack of ambition (and frankly business competence) over the last five years especially has been very disappointing.
Jane, great set of articles, using a line from a great Scottish export, the life science community is definitely "alive and kicking". There is always uncertainty, Scottish Independence, Brexit, US President elections, our job is to stay on message and ensure our future products get to market to improve the lives and well being of patients.